LOLITA, THE BELOVED ORCA WHALE, DIED FRIDAY AT THE MIAMI SEAQUARIUM

Dear John,

"I’ve been reluctant to say anything about the death of Kiska at Marineland Canada, because the emotions are still very raw for me. With the recent death of Lolita, aka Tokitae, I am compelled to speak.

I remember hearing about the plans to release Lolita to a seaside sanctuary and thinking she would likely die before that came to fruition. I hate that I was right.

 I’ve looked into the eyes of many suffering animals. I’ve looked into the eyes of animals who knew their death was imminent. I’ve seen fear, sadness, and the complete loss of hope.

The first time I looked into Kiska’s eyes was an experience I will never forget. Years later, I am tearing up because that feeling is still so powerful.

 Kiska would swim by and slow down when she got close to me, then surface just enough to look me straight in the eyes. I often fought back tears because I felt every bit of lost hope in her gaze right to my very core.

I’ve questioned whether animals know the good guys from the bad. I hope so.

 She deserved so much better. So did Lolita.

 Many whales have lost their freedom because of human greed. I know I can’t save them all. It will never stop me from trying.

They deserve to live their lives, their way."

- LCA Undercover Investigator, formerly undercover at Marineland Canada

WHAT CAN YOU DO?

1. Live in the U.S.? Contact your U.S. Representatives and tell them whales suffering in captivity is an issue you want addressed. Canada passed a law in 2019 to phase out whales in captivity and it’s time for the U.S. to do the same. It only takes a minute - go here to make a difference.

2. Donate to keep our investigators in the field.